Schaeffler India Limited, a leading company in motion technology, has opened its fifth manufacturing plant in Shoolagiri, Tamil Nadu. This new facility focuses on making powertrain and chassis components, along with advanced future technologies. The opening marks an important step in the company’s growth plans.
The inauguration was attended by notable leaders including Mr. Georg F. W Schaeffler, Chairman of the Supervisory Board at Schaeffler AG; Ms. Eranti Sumithasri, Chairperson of Schaeffler India Limited; Matthias Zink, CEO of Powertrain & Chassis at Schaeffler AG; and Mr. Dharmesh Arora, Regional CEO for Asia Pacific at Schaeffler AG.
A New Hub for Future Mobility
The 16,500-square-meter plant is part of Schaeffler India’s plan to meet the rising demand in the automotive sector. It will produce both traditional and electric powertrain technologies. These include planetary gear systems, hybrid transmission parts, and other new innovations tailored mainly for the Indian market.
With this facility, Schaeffler India aims to boost its production capacity for transmission components significantly. It will also support the company’s strategy to develop new products and advanced technologies. This expansion will help the company grow globally over the long term.
Matthias Zink said, “India is a key market for us. This new facility is a big step in expanding our global manufacturing presence and increasing local production. It supports our long-term growth plans and helps us meet the growing needs of the Indian market.”
Mr. Harsha Kadam, Managing Director and CEO of Schaeffler India, added, “Opening the Shoolagiri plant shows our commitment to expanding capabilities in India. It will help us serve our customers better and support the shift towards electric mobility. We also align with the ‘Make In India’ initiative and focus on sustainable practices. India is a strategic growth area for the Schaeffler Group.”
Growing Investment and Capabilities in India
This new plant joins Schaeffler India’s four other manufacturing sites and three research and development centers in the country. Over the past three years (2022-2024), the company has invested ₹1,700 crore in India, exceeding its initial plan of ₹1,500 crore. This investment covers new product lines for powertrain solutions, electric mobility, and bearings for industrial use.
Schaeffler India also expanded its digital presence by acquiring KRSV Innovative Auto Solutions Pvt Ltd (Koovers), a B2B e-commerce platform, in 2023.
Mr. Kadam said, “The automotive industry is becoming more complex. We are committed to growing our capabilities in India with advanced motion technologies. This will help us seize new opportunities and stay competitive.”
Focus on Sustainability
Schaeffler India follows the Schaeffler Group’s global commitment to sustainability. The Shoolagiri facility is designed with this in mind, aiming to become a world-class, environmentally friendly manufacturing hub.
The plant includes many green features. These are natural daylight use, battery-powered material handling, rainwater harvesting, zero liquid discharge systems, and energy-efficient equipment with eco modes. Other initiatives include waste heat recovery, full LED lighting, digital operations, ergonomic workstations, and creating a diverse and inclusive workplace.
